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What’s a Word Weaver? Yes, we are writers who like to weave our words and help each other do so, but we are so much more! Florida Christian Writers Conference is hosted by Word Weavers International, so we’d like to share about this amazing non-profit, and the benefits of this organization. Here’s an excerpt from our leadership notebook explaining our history and what we do.

In March 1997, five members of Northland Church (Longwood, Florida) gathered around a dining room table, eager to encourage one another in the art of writing. Since then, we have grown from those five members to over thirty face-to-face membership chapters across the United States and Canada. Through the use of “the sandwich method” we have seen our members sharpen their skills, find their way to publication in a number of genres and venues, and win awards of excellence.

What Defines a Word Weaver Critique Group?

Our focus is Christ-centered.

We behave thusly in our work and in our attitudes and behavior.

We are professional. With our unique process and format, we show our industry that we take our craft seriously.

We are encouraging to others. We believe that, having been blessed, we are to be a blessing to others.

So, now that you know what at Word Weaver is, here’s five reasons to become one!

Reason #1: Conference Discount

Perhaps this reason is the most mercenary, but we writers know that every penny counts! Word Weavers qualify for a $50 discount toward the conference.

Keep in mind that the annual membership fee is only $45, so this discount essentially covers the membership cost.

Reason #2: Writing Accountability

Deadlines motivate us. We may not like this reality, but it’s true. Combine accountability partners with deadlines, and our motivation doubles.

Word Weaver groups meet monthly, and each member can submit up to 1,500 words for critique. Even if we’re suffering from writer’s block, we’d better come up with 1,500 words so we don’t attend empty-handed! (Of course, there are exceptions, but as a general rule, we always want to submit something to share.)

Reason #3: Objective Critiques

Word Weavers provides the opportunity for other writers to critique our work and for us to critique theirs. Using the sandwich method, members offer both positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.

The “cold read” approach provides insight into a potential reader’s perspective—as if he just pulled our book off the shelf. What writing traits would encourage him to read more? What traits need improvement?

Reason #4: Friends and Colleagues

This reason is my favorite. Becoming a Word Weaver has allowed me to develop friendships with writers I met at conferences and with writers I would not otherwise have met.

Their insights and expertise are invaluable, but beyond that, their honesty and heart for fellow writers provide much-needed compassion along the writer’s journey. We pray for each other. We cheer for each other. We write book reviews and attend book signings (when possible) for each other. The professional and personal relationships built through Word Weavers are in a word: priceless.

Reason #5: Online Meeting Option

The online group option is a blessing for those of us who don’t live close enough to existing group locations. However, did you know that if you’re already a group member, you can still join an online group? Well, you can! To learn more about online groups, contact Word Weavers.

These reasons are just a few benefits to being a Word Weaver! I can think of several more … Can you? If you’re already a Word Weaver, what would you add to this list?

Kristen Hogrefe is an author, teacher, and mentor. She leads an online Word Weavers’ group and is co-founder of the Build Your Brand Program with Bethany Jett to help writers share their stories through social media. She’s written a young adult suspense trilogy Wings of the Dawn and is currently working on several projects. Kristen teaches Language Arts for Alpha Omega Academy, serves as a youth leader at her church, and blogs for teen girls at www.ThinkTrueThoughts.com. In her free time, she craves sunshine, coffee, and good books.